Greektown Historic District is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Detroit. Walk around this compact part of the city centre to find bars, restaurants and casinos inspired by Greece, yet in the heart of Michigan’s largest city. This atmospheric district gives you a glimpse into Detroit’s history and offers fun nights at gaming tables and in European-style bars.
Stroll down streets that were first populated in 1830, initially by German immigrants. Greektown gained its name in the early 1900s when immigrants from Greece moved in and set up businesses in the area. The neighbourhood took on even more of a Greek personality in the 1960s, when leaders in the community ran the popular annual Greek Festival on the neighbourhood’s streets.
Stop for lunch or dinner in the businesses scattered around Greektown. Restaurants and bars such as Pegasus Taverna are named after Greek heroes, myths and cities. These cosy establishments offer classic dishes from the Mediterranean. Feast on meals such as souvlaki and accompany them with a shot of ouzo, one of the most popular spirits in Greece.
Pause for a moment in the two neighboring churches of Greektown. Look upward when entering Old St. Mary’s, which was built in 1885, to appreciate the colourful frescoes on the ceiling of this Pisan Romanesque church. Annunciation Cathedral is a more modern Greek Orthodox church with impressive icons of the 12 apostles.
Try your luck at the Greektown Casino, a stylish glass building with a variety of games. Poker competitions promise fun and tension throughout the evening, while other tables offer blackjack, roulette and craps.
Throughout summer, Greektown hosts music and dance on the streets at sundown every weekend. Join hundreds of visitors and embrace the lively energy of these performances as Monroe Street becomes pedestrianized for the night.
Ride Detroit’s People Mover into the heart of Greektown Historic District or take one of the buses running throughout the city. The neighbourhood is free to enter and easy to explore on foot. Its highlights are open throughout the year.
